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Project Description:

Arguably, we live in the most technologically advanced society since the beginning of man.  During the last hundred years inventions have simplified tasks to make living easier.  At the core of these technological advancements are five simple machines that have revolutionized the world. 

By doing this project, students will research these simple machines ― levers, pulleys, screws, inclined planes, wheel and axle, and wedge ― and do experiments using these simple machines.  Students will then combine different simple machines and design a complex Rube Goldburg machine to do a simple task.

1. Use simple machines to demonstrate principles of mechanics.
2. Describe the motion of objects by position, direction, and speed.
3. Define work, energy, power, and friction and give real world examples of each.

• How have simple machines been essential in our society’s technological advancements?

• What do you think a machine is or does?
• What is a lever?
• How does this machine simplify work?
• What is an inclined plane?
• Can you think of any ancient monument that probably used this simple machine?
• What is a pulley?
• What is a screw?
• Why is the screw considered a machine?
• Where have you seen them used?
• What is a wheel and axle?
• Give an example of a wheel and axle used by almost every person 18 or older.
• In your opinion which of these machines is most used? Why?
   

Unit Prerequisites

• Must have an understanding of computer Internet usage.
• Must be willing to expand their knowledge.
• Must have an understanding of cutting and pasting.
• Must be creative.
• Must possess the skills to write a scientific report based on the scientific method.
 

Access:
• Inspect the different simple machines and their uses.
• Look-Up facts about pulleys and where they are used.
• Explore how a screw works.

Interpret:
• Compare the differences between the lever and the wheel and axle.
• Evaluate the necessity of simple machines.
• Apply your knowledge of simple machines to everyday tools used in your life. If possible bring in any simple tools from a toolbox at home that explains this to your group.

Produce:
• Draw a simple machine using two pulleys.
• Apply what you know about gravity to the position of a fulcrum in a lever.
• Design your own machine using a wheel and axle. (Something to simplify life that.)

Communicate:
• Explain the steps in your simple machines.
• Persuade a machine manufacturer that your product is an efficient way to do a specific task.
• Elaborate a way to make this machine from recycled goods.

Evaluate:
• Plan a Rube Goldburg machine.
• Test your machine by building it.
• Rate its efficiency.
 

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